Combined Effects of Thermal and Non-Newtonian Character of Lubricant on Pressure, Film Profile, Temperature Rise, and Shear Stress in E.H.L.

A derivation of the lubrication equation suitable for nonlinear rheological model is presented. Full numerical solutions coupling the lubrication equation with film shape equation and energy equation are obtained to reveal the combined influence of thermal and non-Newtonian character of lubricant on elasto-hydrodynamic lubrication. Results show that the minimum film thickness is influenced only slightly in general. Nevertheless, the spikes of pressure and temperature rise, and the coefficient of friction are strongly affected by the rheological character of lubricant. It is concluded that both the temperature rise and non-Newtonian character of the oil film should be considered in E.H.L. analysis in order to obtain reliable results.